The Top Five Things You Should Remember when Looking for a House or Flat to Rent

There are both disadvantages and advantages to renting; on the one hand, it may seem like a waste of money (as some believe it’s paying for something you can’t own), but on the other hand, there’s an incredible amount of freedom when it comes to flexibility to relocate, ability to save money (perhaps in preparation for buying a home later on) and the avoidance of responsibility when it comes to repairs and refurbishing.

Your letting experience should be a pleasant one, and it’s important you look around carefully before committing to a contract; it should favour you and allow you to grow. Here are the top five things you should remember when looking for a house or flat to rent.

Research first

It’s often much better to take a map, determine areas or neighbourhoods of interest, and select the right ones (or eliminate the wrong ones) by checking for necessary amenities and conveniences such as stores, restaurants, public transportation, schools, supermarkets, and so on. You’ll also be able to eliminate certain areas by checking crime rates or busy intersections, and so on.

Take advantage of the whole market

High street real estate agents may have a lot to offer, but you’ll often find better deals when you use all available resources; also check out private landlords, property management agencies, and online real estate agencies. You’ll get more familiar with what’s on offer and what the fees are, and may be able to get a better sense of what exactly you are looking for.

Check the neighbourhood

Your initial investigation by viewing maps may have allowed you to locate areas of interest, but there’s nothing like taking a walk in the neighbourhood itself; do so several times, at different times of the day, and on different days of the week, whether you’re seeking flats to rent in Colchester or a house to rent in other areas like Hornchurch or Upminster.

List your requirements

How many rooms do you need? How large should they be? What about the size of the kitchen and bathroom?

Check the property carefully

Take your time when viewing the property, and ask the landlord or agent (even the neighbours) as many questions as you can. Furthermore, view multiple properties before settling and making a decision.

There are two more things you should be mindful of. Firstly, it’s possible to haggle when it comes to price; there’s nothing wrong with making your own offer, especially when you have positive points to offer (such as no pets, no children, committing to a long-term contract, etc.). Secondly, if you’re going to share your flat, choose your flat mates carefully; even the smallest of issues can disrupt peace of mind and harmony. Take your time, and choose wisely.